Local

Cows Eating Insulation

Related Tags:

MARSHFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Agricultural officials are warning Missouri farmers of the risks to livestock from fiberglass insulation strewn across fields after the massive tornado that hit Joplin.

University of Missouri Extension officials say farmers should try to clear their fields as much as possible so cattle won’t gobble up the insulation.

While the insulation isn’t toxic, it also isn’t digestible, meaning it can cause blockages in the digestive system. Dr. Monty Kerley, of the university’s animal science division, says the risk likely grows with the amount of insulation swallowed.

Officials say the other concern is that glass particles in the insulation could penetrate animals’ intestinal tracts and cause a tissue reaction.